Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales on Wednesday imposed a state of siege in six departments of the country for a period of 30 days. He took such a step after an attack by drug dealers on an army patrol in the El Estor district in the Izabal Department, leaving thee servicemen died, TASS reported referring to Prensa Libre.

For the duration of the special legal regime, restrictions are imposed on the movement of citizens, holding meetings and carrying arms. Representatives of the authorities will be able to carry out the detention and interrogation of suspects in a simplified manner. Within three days, the parliament of the republic must familiarize itself with the decision of the head of state and approve it.

In areas where, according to authorities, drug gangs are operating, additional police and armed forces units will be deployed.